Minicars perform poorly in front crash test

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently conducted a front crash test on a group of minicars from popular automotive brands. Of the 11 minicars tested, only one achieved an “Acceptable” rating.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s small overlap front crash test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole. In the test, 25 percent of a vehicle’s front end on the driver’s side strikes a rigid barrier at 40 mph.

11 minicars (from 2013 or 2014 models) went through this test and only the Chevrolet Spark achieved an overall rating of “Acceptable” (highest is Good) and received the 2014 IIHS Top Safety Pick in this category. The Mazda 2, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, and the 2014 Ford Fiesta received “Marginal” ratings. While the 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage, Nissan Versa sedan, Toyota Prius c, Hyundai Accent, Fiat 500, and Honda Fit, received “Poor” ratings. See table below:

“Small, lightweight vehicles have an inherent safety disadvantage. That’s why it’s even more important to choose one with the best occupant protection,” says Joe Nolan, IIHS senior vice president for vehicle research.

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I don’t think this is an issue in a country like the Philippines. It’s more practical to use these cars for city driving, where roads like EDSA have very low average speeds. They are more economical than large sedans in terms of gas mileage. You won’t really meet scenarios like those used in crash tests.

Oh and please stick to mobile tech reviews. Automotives are not really the competency of this site.

Safety should always be a priority, especially when buying a vehicle. Be sure that the car you are buying passed a rigorous safety test. And as much as possible, get a comprehensive car insurance for your protection.